By Deepika Mala, TMCnet Contributor
Powerwave Technologies, Inc., a global leader in end-to-end wireless coverage and capacity solutions, becomes a part of the EDGE Innovation Network, a collaborative, open-environment initiative enabling industry and academia, with government input.
While working with the EDGE Innovation Network, Powerwave (News 
- Alert) will be responsible of enhancing the delivery cycle of new technologies and innovative capabilities to warfighters and first responders.
“Powerwave has long been a leader in commercial wireless network infrastructure and is uniquely positioned to help lead the adoption of commercial technology within the government sector,” said Khurram Sheikh, chief product and development officer at Powerwave, in a press release. “The EDGE Innovation Network offers great opportunities for Powerwave and fellow member organizations to collaborate on advancements in network technology and architecture that can provide government and military enterprises with the improved performance and capabilities critical for public safety, defense and homeland security applications.”
Several innovations including a Soldier Intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance Receiver to the U.S. Army have been delivered by the EDGE, which is sponsored by General Dynamics (News - Alert) C4 Systems. About the size of a BlackBerry smartphone, the SIR device delivers real-time streaming video directly from multiple manned or unmanned assets directly into the hands of soldiers on the ground. To improve and enhance warfighter capabilities, currently, there are over 10 projects in development intended.
In a press release, Pete Palmer, EDGE Innovation Network director, said, “The EDGE bridges the gap between meeting end-user needs with current capabilities by rapidly testing and delivering prototyped solutions. By applying the EDGE process, the government can quickly and cost-effectively review innovative products that can be delivered to users in months rather than years.”
In related news, Powerwave’s chief product and development officer Khurram Sheikh and chairman of the company's technical advisory board, presented the industrial affiliate keynote speech at the University of Texas at Austin Wireless Networking and Communications Group Texas Wireless Summit 2010.
